Biden to sell child care and free university in speech to Congress

US President Joe Biden is expected to call for free pre-school and community college in his first speech to a joint session of Congress.

Speaking on the eve of his 100th day in office, the Democrat will call for the most sweeping revamp of US social benefits since the 1960s. 

His plan includes $4tn (£2.9tn) of spending on education and family leave.

History will also be made as two women sit behind the president for the first time during a speech to Congress.

US Vice-President Kamala Harris and House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi will both wear masks at the rostrum during Wednesday night's primetime address. 

The US president's State of the Union-style remarks will be followed by the traditional rebuttal speech from the opposing party – delivered on this occasion by Senator Tim Scott, a South Carolina Republican.